"He led me into it," said Jim. "He suggested it all: how I could take the money they send to the mill every Saturday for the men's pay, how I could get my mother's power of attorney, and use her securities. I never should have thought of it but for him—never!"
"You mean," asked Mrs. Harmon, "that you have done those things?"
"Yes," he replied. "I wanted to please you, to give you things, and have money."
She turned partly away from him, and stood looking down. Jim came to her side. "But we don't care, do we, Lydia?" He put his hands on her shoulders.
She moved away quickly. "What do you mean?"
"Ellis won't help me. Mather is after me. I've got to go away—go away this very night. Lydia, come with me!"
"Mr. Wayne," she began slowly.
"No; call me Jim!"
"You poor Jim, then. I can't do this."